The Government of Western Equatoria State has formed committees to investigate the ongoing violence in Tambura County.
Information and Communication Minister Elia Dominic Usini said the initiative seeks to address the causes of the conflict, restore stability, and deliver justice to the affected communities.
Usini stated that representatives from various political parties, including SPLM-IG, SPLM-IO, SSOA, and OPP, alongside the youth, women, state officials, and members of the Zande and Balanda communities, convened to deliberate on de-escalating the violence.
“This initiative involves members of the Zande and Balanda communities travelling to Tambura County to engage in dialogue. The Zande will speak with the Zande, the Balanda will speak with the Balanda, and eventually, both groups will meet to find lasting solutions,” Usini explained.
“The United Nations is supporting this effort by providing us with air transport. We will spend seven days in the county listening to the residents and understanding their concerns,” he added.
The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering peace and reconciliation.
“The committees will ensure that everyone’s voice is heard and that those responsible for the violence are held accountable,” he emphasized.
Usini also noted the unity among the state leaders including Governor Alfred Futuyo and his deputy, in addressing the crisis.
“The governor, his deputy, and I are all going to Tambura County. We will sit together, talk, and find peaceful solutions. What we need most is peace in Tambura County,” he appealed.
The formation of these committees is part of a broader strategy by the state government to combat insecurity and promote sustainable peace across Western Equatoria State, he said.